Acceptance Rate
99%
Avg. SAT
1315
75th percentile
“South Dakota's flagship public university on Missouri River bluffs, home to the state's sole law and medical schools.”
Vermillion, SD
Location
Town
Campus Setting
The University of South Dakota traces its roots to 1862, when the Dakota Territorial Legislature chartered it as the first university in what would become the state. Located in Vermillion, a town of about 11,000 along the Missouri River, USD serves as the flagship public institution, drawing students from across the Midwest who value affordability and a straightforward path to careers in essential fields like healthcare and law. You'll find a grounded personality here—practical, community-oriented, with a focus on serving South Dakota's needs amid wide-open prairies and rolling bluffs.
Students who thrive at USD often prefer small-town rhythms over urban hustle, enjoying close ties to faculty and classmates in a place where professors know your name by sophomore year. The surrounding area offers low cost of living and outdoor pursuits like hiking or river paddling, but tradeoffs include isolation—major cities like Sioux Falls lie an hour away—and harsh winters that keep you indoors from November through March. Those seeking constant nightlife or mild weather might feel the distance more acutely.
Photo Gallery
+9
+1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
Test-optional schools still weigh strong scores. Submitting can help.
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
USD shines in professional programs, particularly its Knudson School of Law and Sanford School of Medicine, the only ones in South Dakota, alongside strengths in nursing, education, and business through the Beacom School. In classrooms, expect a mix: large lectures for intro courses give way to smaller seminars where you'll debate cases in law or dissect cadavers in med school pathways, with faculty who prioritize hands-on training for Midwest jobs. Research opportunities abound in public health and addiction studies, though undergrads compete for spots in high-demand tracks like physician assistant training.
The intellectual vibe feels collaborative rather than cutthroat, suiting students who want practical skills over abstract theory, but popular majors fill quickly, so early declaration helps secure your spot.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
7,619 undergrad • 3,000 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
78%
Black / African American
3%
Hispanic / Latino
4%
Asian
1%
Other / Multi-racial
13%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Vermillion, SD
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at USD revolves around a friendly, low-key social scene where a typical week mixes classes, club meetings, and Coyote athletics—football tailgates draw crowds in fall, while intramurals keep things active year-round. Traditions like Dakota Days homecoming infuse spirit, with parades and bonfires uniting students in Vermillion's compact setting. Housing clusters freshmen into residence halls with learning communities for shared interests, building bonds that last, though upperclassmen often seek off-campus apartments amid the town's limited options.
Greeks and over 200 clubs provide outlets, from outdoor adventure groups to service orgs, but the party scene stays mellow—think house gatherings over massive ragers. Tradeoffs include a campus-focused feel due to the small town, plus snowy winters curbing spontaneous outdoor hangs, balanced by cheap living and easy access to nature.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
The Summit League
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
No
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA to unlock grants, scholarships, and federal loans.
Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
79%
4 Years Graduation Rate
45%
6 Years Graduation Rate
59%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$51,926
79% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at University of South Dakota and return in the fall. 45% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 59% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
45%
4-5 years
14%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
40%
Let’s find your perfect tutor
Answer a few quick questions. We’ll recommend the right plan and match you with a top 5% tutor.
Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$7,773
Acceptance
99%
Undergrads
7,619
4-Year Grad Rate
45%
Endowment
$289M
Vermillion, SD 57069-2390